Michael's Solo Debut Was An Underrated Treasure

CLEVELAND - After more than two years of dominating the spotlight as the lead vocalist for the Jackson 5, a 13-year old Michael Jackson launched a solo career that would eventually inspire millions and change music forever.

That's what makes his humble solo debut so amazing.

Got To Be There was released in early 1972 and featured the hits "Rockin' Robin,'" the title track "Got To Be There" and my personal favorite, "Ain't No Sunshine," Michael's incredible cover of the Bill Withers classic. In the final estimation, the album as a whole was considered a mild success, but Michael's vocal ability and versatility were as usual critically acclaimed.

Because of what Michael's career became during a decade of historic dominance in the 1980's, it is easy to sell this debut short by comparison. But young Michael, under the precise tutelage of Berry Gordy and his Motown Records staff crafted an outstanding debut that showcased the awesome raw talent of an international star on the rise.

And he was just 13.

20 Years Later, 'Do the Right Thing' Still 'Happens'

CLEVELAND - It was 20 years ago today that filmmaker Spike Lee released his seminal film, Do the Right Thing. Both controversial and highly acclaimed, the flick turned out to be a classic.

Maybe not in the traditional sense.

Do the Right Thing never got the credit it truly deserved. For one, Lee was establishing himself as a militant and controversial director. At age 32, he was releasing his third straight envelope-pushing film which was an ingenious piece of work due to its unflinching look into the world of racism. Indeed, the chasm between Black and White cultures and beliefs and how racial tension is almost always bubbling beneath the surface were on full display.

There was the Italian-Americans proudly extolling the greatness of Frank Sinatra and Sylvester Stallone while the African-Americans touted Michael Jackson and Sammie Davis, Jr as their heroes. The confrontation between the Black kid in the Michael Jordan sneakers and the White kid in the Larry Bird jersey. And of course, the tragically violent, yet stunningly realistic climax and ensuing interracial riot in the streets of Brooklyn, New York.

Blacks and Whites often behave the same way in real life against each other and it's the reason that we'll never make real progress; we continue to segregate ourselves from other races and act as if we're not all the same in the end. Violence is never a good solution, especially when it's racially motivated. Even the election of Barack Obama doesn't show TRUE progress because he's still so unaccepted by many people solely because of the "black" half of his ethnicity.

Lee was a genius with this film. The story continues to play out.

With Michael, The World Was Hypocritical Idiots

CLEVELAND - Michael Jackson has been hailed as a beloved icon by media and fans alike during the past few days since he tragically left us. But truthfully, Michael was always torn apart by critics and the general public during his life for his every decision and even his appearance.

Typical and hypocritical.

What angers me most is how so many people judged him without realizing that he was always exactly like all of us; human. Each and every one of us was born with a talent for something that we felt confident about and excelled at. Michael was born with immense gifts and talents as a singer and dancer and when in the studio and on stage, he was a confident juggernaut. On the flip side, all of us have things about our physical appearance that we either don't like or flat out hate.

Everyone has insecurities.

We don't like our hair. Our eyes are too close together. Our nose is too big. We hate that gap in our teeth. We're too short. Our hips are too wide. Our arms are too flabby. Our skin is too dark.

If we could change those things, we would do it in a heartbeat.

Michael clearly had things about his physical appearance that he didn't like. He had millions of dollars, so he was able to make changes as he saw fit. Maybe we think that he went too far in his facial alterations, but it was his life and he had the final say on his choices -- just like all of us. Not everyone would agree with our changes either. If someone tells us we were "fine the way we are," we would still get the changes done if we had the money because if we don't feel good about how we look, no one else's opinion will matter.

Each and every one of us have made bad decisions, exhibited poor judgement and made mistakes that we haven't learned from. But whenever Michael did questionable and ill-advised things, the world crucified him. He hung out with children and got accused of molesting one in 1993. He avoided a trial by reaching a financial settlement with his accuser's family. Then a decade later, he got into the same situation but had to stand trial. Everyone talked about how dumb he was for letting it happen again, but no one ever though about the fact that many of us get burned by the same dumb choices for years in our own lives.

People say that Michael got away with child molestation when he was acquitted in 2005. In truth, all of us are unconvicted felons. We're domestic abusers, drug dealers and statutory rapists. We pass bad checks, break and enter, aid and abet, claim other people's children on our taxes, extort and blackmail. In Michael's situation, he was accused twice and nothing was ever proven. We know for a fact that we commit crimes. We only assume he did, yet he gets the criticism and we say nothing of ourselves.

Ridiculous.

We are extremely immoral. We fornicate shamelessly. We commit adultery. We are promiscuous. We abuse our children. We lie to our parents. We use profanity around children and senior citizens. Michael spends plenty of time with children trying to create a pseudo-childhood for himself since he was robbed of his own and the world thinks he's the devil. We see his tenderness and selflessness with children in his record-setting humanitarian efforts. We see him travel the globe visiting terminally ill kids and getting close to them to make their day and lift their spirits. We hear his heartfelt songs that call for making the world a better place, yet he is vilified as if none of this exists.

Unfair.

We are all addicts. We abuse drugs and alcohol. We abuse food and sex. We smoke for decades instead of using that money (tens of thousands of dollars) for more beneficial purposes. Michael gets addicted to pain killers and suddenly, he's a monster.

We spend money on clothes and shoes instead of paying bills but we dog Michael for his lavish spending. We criticize Michael and question the legitimacy of his marriages to Lisa Marie Presley and Debbie Rowe instead of focusing on our own failing relationships. We insist that he couldn't have possibly fathered his fair-skinned children because he's a black man, but many of us barely see or take care of our own children.

He was always there for his kids.

Michael was a shy and sensitive child that had the responsibility AS A CHILD to entertain ordinary people all over the world and disregard his own needs, wants and bedtimes. Most of us will never experience such pressure so therefore, the way we turn out will be the result of our life experiences. For Michael, an entire lifetime spent living up to everyone else's standards and being judged by what others feel to be "normal" was incredibly generous but also, simply ridiculous.

Being insulted and ridiculed for everything in his private life was the ultimate in hypocrisy and was tantamount to pure ignorance. If people spent more time cleaning out their own closet, the world would be a better place. Let's take the time to learn what path in life a person has travelled. Then maybe, we can try and understand the reasons why they are the way they are instead of tearing them down. Everyone is different, but not completely.

We all have so much in common.

Michael's Groundbreaking Debut: Pure Genius

CLEVELAND - Call it denial if you want, but the horrific pain of losing Michael Jackson a few days ago has caused me to desperately seek solace and refuge from unprecedented grief.

In other words, I'm trying to focus on the great times that Michael gave the world.

His first major entrance into our world took place in 1969, when he and his four older brothers (who were newly signed to Motown Records) appeared as The Jackson 5 on the then-popular Ed Sullivan Show. Watching Michael, who at the time was just 11 years old, is a real treat. His command of the microphone and entire stage is palpable and his voice is pure heaven.

The brothers performed "I Want You Back" with Michael actually being the embodiment of some of the song's lyrics; he was the "pretty face that stands out in the crowd." A born showman and the ultimate performer, Michael's gifts during this national introduction of he and his brothers are obvious and substantial.

Talk about a prodigy.

Trying To Cope With The Nightmare Of Losing Michael

CLEVELAND - My immense pain has not subsided for the great Michael Jackson, but I have tried a coping mechanism that I've previously detested.

Remembering the great stuff.

Normally, when something tragic happens that affects me greatly, I become extremely grief-stricken. That has certainly happened the past couple days and as a result, I have been so hurt and overcome with emotion that I have been sad and stone-faced most of the time.

But after watching Michael's legendary music videos and stage performances on television, I have shockingly been cheered up. Being reminded of his king-sized talent, historic accomplishments, incredible philanthropy and record-setting humanitarian efforts, I actually smiled at all of it, especially, the enormous size heart that he had. The selflessness and far-reaching generosity he consistently showed to sick, hungry, dying and underprivileged people was unsurpassed.

Yes, I still cry a million tears over this unthinkable and colossal loss. But I am so blessed that God has given me guidance and the ability to be strong and even smile a little in spite of how miserable this nightmare has been for me.

I love you, Michael.

My Michael Has Left Me

CLEVELAND - As I sit here attempting to write something worthy of Michael Jackson's gigantic impact upon my entire life, my face is covered in an ocean of tears and my heart literally aches for him. Words cannot explain what that beautiful human being has meant to me always.

There's been a death in my family.

Jackson, 50 is probably the first man that I ever loved. He was the only man that stayed in my life and never left when I was a young child. I never knew my own father, and as long as I had Michael, that was more than good enough. Memories of him are indelible -- my aunt Trina, who is nearly 10 years older than I, brought Michael to my attention in 1982 when I was just 5. By 1983, the entire planet was madly in love with him largely because of his undeniably brilliant Thriller album.

My aunt was the ring leader of his fan club.

As a child in elementary school in the early 1980's, talking about Michael was a given. Fawning over him was unavoidable and emulating him was inevitable. I drew countless pictures of him and thanks to my wonderful mother Deborah, I owned replicas of his trademark dark shades, glittered glove, "Beat It" jacket and penny loafers.

I love my mother for caring so much about what mattered most to me; Michael Jackson.

I'll never forget how amazed I was at age 6 watching the historic "Thriller" video for the first time in December 1983 on "Friday Night Videos." My cousin Demetrius had told me about this amazing "movie" that he'd seen with Michael in it and I just had to see it.

The historic 1984 American Music Awards and Grammy Awards were so thrilling to my aunt and I because they both became a showcase for Michael. He captured an unbelievable 16 awards between the two shows in just a six week span. Between those awards shows was a near fatal accident on the set of a Pepsi commercial. Michael suffered second and third degree burns to his scalp when pyrotechnic sparks shot into his then-famous Jheri-curled hair.

I remember being terrified when news of this broke.

Throughout 1984, Thriller continued to steamroll the music industry and Michael kept on captivating the world. He was the most popular guy on the planet and inspired millions of imitators. His iconic Pepsi commercial, in which he and his brothers dance in the streets with a group of children including a 12-year old Alfonso Ribeiro was of course, re-enacted by my friends and I on our neighborhood streets. I collected dozens of the Pepsi cans that were issued in the summer of '84 in promotion of the Victory Tour, which were "autographed" by Michael and his brothers.

I'll never forget his electric magic on "Motown 25." I fondly look back on the days when I tried to perform those complicated dance steps, and the days when my best friend Jermaine wore a replica "Billie Jean" outfit to 3rd grade to the awe of everyone. Jermaine also had the great fortune of playing the part of Michael when us kids re-enacted the "Thriller" video.

I begged my mom to buy me the then-super popular Viewmaster and the "Thriller" cartridges to go with it. I loved it...but not as much as the Talking Viewmaster that I got later. My aunt had dozens of posters of Michael adorning her bedroom walls. Her jackets were covered in pins of him. She sang to him in the mirror. She had scrapbooks filled with pictures and articles and owned his calendars. That is where my love for Michael came from.

One of my great memories is when my mother moved heaven and earth to find someone that had cable television (it wasn't available in the Glenville neighborhood of Cleveland in 1984) so that I could watch a major event: "The Making of Thriller." A friend of hers picked us up and took us over their house to watch it. My mom was on my good list that night!

Though the horror-themed "Thriller" video scared a lot of kids, it never scared me. I only knew that I greatly enjoyed watching it and that is what inspired my purchase (with allowance) of the VHS tape, "Making Michael Jackson's Thriller."

That incredible Victory Tour was nothing short of awesome. Even though I was just 7 years old, I vividly remember going to the Cleveland Municipal Stadium on Saturday, October 20, 1984. I remember Michael on stage, breathtaking as he was, performing his incredible hits. I was armed with binoculars, but my almost 16-year old cousin Terry kept taking them from me to impress a cute girl that sat next to him. Looking back, I feel very privileged to be able to say with truthfulness that I saw Michael perform live and in person.

For the rest of the '80's, I wrote stories about him and continued to draw pictures. I tried to dance and sing like him and I begged my mother to pay for me to get a Jheri-curl just like his. I never got it, but it didn't stop me. I used to take a paper towel, soak it in water and lay it over top of my own hair. Then I would jerk my head and point my finger like Michael and pretend like the wet paper towel was a MJ Jheri-curl! When drops of water would fly from the paper towel, I would get so happy because that made it seem like real Jheri-curl moisturizer!

I also put strands of black thread on my forehead (held in place with hair grease) to simulate Michael's black curls and "baby hair."

I continuously recited Michael's parts from "We Are the World" in 1985 and I desperately wanted to go to Walt Disney World's Epcot Center to see Michael in "Captain EO" in 1986. When Bad, his follow-up to Thriller came out in August 1987, I was overjoyed. I loved his new look too; longer hair, lighter skin and outfits with buckles to replace the Thriller-era zippered jackets.

I re-enacted "The Way You Make Me Feel" music video at my 11th birthday party in 1988, just weeks before I went crazy over the release of his biography "Moonwalk." I drew pictures of the cover, which featured half of Michael's face in a close-up. I saw it in a book store priced at $16.95 and I begged my mother for it. She felt that it was too expensive, but I persisted. Eventually, my God-mother Claudine mentioned that she had a copy of it which drove me into a frenzy. She told me that she'd give it to me, so I bugged my mother to call her all the time when she wasn't coming over quick enough for my tastes.

When she finally brought it over, it was like a major event was taking place. I was ecstatic and promptly took to reading it. In early 1989, I got the "Moonwalker" VHS tape and watched it constantly. When Michael appeared on The Arsenio Hall Show as a surprise (during an interview with Eddie Murphy), I couldn't stop smiling. He earned a slew of awards in '89 naming him the entertainer of the decade.

Which was a major understatement.

With the release of the Dangerous album at the end of 1991, Michael had again surfaced with a new look. The "Black or White" video was highly cutting-edge and even though I was now a high-school freshman, I was still an insatiable Michael fan. The videos for "Remember the Time" and "In the Closet" were extraordinary, but when Michael teamed up with my other Michael love, Mr. Jordan for the "Jam" video, I was blown away.

The Super Bowl halftime show in 1993, during which Michael put on a large-scale production and performance was an instantly classic moment in his endless cache of classic moments. It was shortly after that performance that America began turning against Michael due to child-molestation allegations that had surfaced against him. I was upset about the charges, but I never believed them. Not because I was a die-hard fan, but because I paid attention to his words and actions and they made me understand his heart.

It was Michael's 1995 single, "You Are Not Alone" that enabled me to get through the utterly depressing days of my best friend Jermaine's departure. He left my side to go to the U.S. Navy which was horrible to me at the time. Michael's poignant words in the song seemed like Jermaine was speaking to me through Michael. To this day, I still get choked up listening to it and watching the video.

The rest of the '90's were an obscure time for Michael. That's one of the major reasons that I was so ecstatic when word came that he was releasing a new album in 2001.

That album, Invincible, was a financial and critical disappointment. But as I listened to the tracks on the disc, I became quite impressed. Besides the lead single "You Rock My World," there were many other songs (especially ballads) that I felt were among the best of his splendid career.

And that is saying a whole lot.

I was in disbelief when Michael was accused once again of child molestation in 2003. I saw the controversial interview with Martin Bashir and heard the stunning things that Michael said about Gavin Arviso, the 13-year old cancer survivor that eventually brought on the accusations. I concluded that Michael was not a criminal, but instead a man of occasionally poor judgement and a see-it-to-believe-it naivete that most folks just don't have at any age, let alone at age 44.

I knew the accusations were serious but in no way did I think that they would result in charges being issued and Michael would actually stand trial. It was stunning enough seeing him in handcuffs in November 2003, but actually being on trial was crazy.

To me.

It was March 2005 that the trial began, and I tuned in to any updates or conversations that I could find on television. The testimony upset me greatly, because remember, Michael was a family member in my book. When he showed up to court in pajamas in late March, I grew quite concerned and nervous. The way he looked seemed as if he was truly sick and that his life may be in jeopardy. Turns out, he was fine. One thing that I really admired about the daily trips to court was the way he dressed. While many criticized him for not wearing a "real suit," I was in awe of his meticulous style. He wore suits, but they were unique and very detailed with various designs and trims.

As always, a fashion icon.

When the jury began their deliberations on June 3, 2005, I was so nervous about a possible guilty verdict. The fact that it took ten long days to reach a verdict had me close to a nervous breakdown. My best friend Jermaine came to watch the reading of the verdict with me and when it came down (not guilty on all 10 charges), I cried and sobbed like a newborn baby. We embraced and I breathed a huge sigh of relief. I was eager to find out what Michael was going to do in the way of a comeback.

He was vindicated!

I celebrated heavily and even went as far as to persuade Jermaine and my cousin to drink wine out of Diet Coke cans with me. Reason being, during the trial, someone testified that Michael gave his alleged victims (teenaged boys) wine in Diet Coke cans and called it "Jesus Juice." I also played his music constantly, ecstatic over the verdict.

Of course, Michael disappeared after the trial. He moved out of the country and became even more scarce than normal. When 2007 rolled around, I had already been planning to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Thriller album, so I was overjoyed when Michael appeared on the cover of Ebony magazine dressed in all white and looking like royalty. They even did an extensive interview with him about the impact of that seminal piece of history.

Earlier this year, Michael announced that he was going on tour for the final time in his career. I was excited of course, but my enthusiasm was tempered because the concerts were going to be in London, not the U.S. Even still, it put a huge smile on my face to find out that the entire tour sold out in mere minutes, raking in millions of dollars.

Then, yesterday happened.

When the news came down that Michael was in very serious condition at UCLA Medical Center after going into cardiac arrest, I was horrified but in disbelief. When I rushed to my computer and television, I began to have trouble breathing and I started having pains all over. I couldn't sit still and I had a nest of butterflies in my stomach.

I cried and shook. I kept all of my fingers crossed and my heart wouldn't stop racing. At that point, nothing was confirmed but I was still restless and scared. My phone kept ringing, e-mails and text messages poured in -- and I ignored them all. Not because I wanted to, but because I was froze. I literally was incapable of taking any calls.

When Michael's death was confirmed, I lost it. I could not handle the stunning shock and sudden finality of the situation. My mind was a blur of emotions and I fidgeted constantly. I watched the extensive coverage on television and tried to force myself to calm down. I knew that I would wind up in the hospital if I didn't settle myself down. Amazingly, I managed to relax a bit, but man was I bummed.

That's putting it mildly.

I can't talk too much more about this right now because it still hurts like hell and quite frankly, always will. I do want to say this though: Michael Jackson was the greatest, most creative genius that entertainment has ever known. His humanitarian efforts globally were unprecedented and served as irrefutable proof that he was a God-fearing man, kind and caring to the nth degree.

Michael was a member of my family because he was a member of my life from the time I was first able to remember anything. I love him so very much, and a huge piece of me died with him.

Thanks so much Michael. God rest your amazing soul.

Shaq To Cavs Trade Answers and Poses Questions

CLEVELAND - Shaquille O'Neal is indisputably one of the greatest, most dominant players in the history of basketball.

Now, he's teaming up with LeBron James, the best player in the world.

O'Neal was traded today to the Cleveland Cavaliers, the 5th team of his storied pro career. His arrival, made possible by the Cavs giving up essentially nothing to O'Neal's former team the Phoenix Suns, will certainly fill a major hole for Cleveland after their stunning loss to the Orlando Magic in the Eastern Conference Finals last month.

But O'Neal will enter his 18th NBA season this autumn and will be a very ripe 38 years of age before the regular season ends. He is a far cry from the dominant force he was during his early years in Orlando and prime years with the L.A. Lakers due to his advanced pro hoops age. But there is no denying his skill and still formidable talent, not to mention his championship experience, and mental toughness.

He will fit well in Cleveland. Hopefully.

James, the resident superstar for the Cavs will greatly benefit from Shaq's presence as opposing defenses won't be able to swarm him as much as in the past. Cavs center Zydrunas Ilgauskas, who has never been an aggressive player will likely become more effective as he won't be the team's only offensive big man. Anderson Varejao may become better defensively and can now play his natural power forward position.

That is, if Shaq holds up physically.

Bottom line; if O'Neal can defy age and play with the same passion, skill and fire as he did during his resurgence in Phoenix last season, and if he can avoid major injuries and play in the majority of the games, then Cleveland will challenge the reigning champion Lakers for the '09-'10 NBA.

That's a lot of ifs.

McMahon Was A Television Icon In His Own Right

CLEVELAND - Ed McMahon will forever be known and thought of as Johnny Carson's sidekick; a fiercely loyal second-banana and the creator of the iconic 'Heeeeeeeeeeere's Johnny' introduction on NBC's The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson for 30 years.

The truth is, he was also a legend.

McMahon died this morning at age 86 after spending most of this decade afflicted with a series of serious illnesses. The memory of the man is predictably being tethered to the legendary Carson, who died in January 2005. While it is true that McMahon excelled in his role as co-star to Carson's leading man, he should never be thought of as merely a tag along.

To me, McMahon was the quintessential team player and an unforgettable staple of late-night television. He knew, expertly so how to augment Carson's pitch-perfect comedic genius and endless array of goofy sketches. He punctuated Carson's punchlines and muggings for the camera with his signature guffaw and often offered his two cents to Carson's monologues, which in turn added spice to the entire production.

McMahon also hosted Star Search and co-hosted T.V.'s Bloopers and Practical Jokes, all the while being recognized as "Johnny's sidekick." It can be argued, especially amongst people of my generation who grew up in the 1980's and '90's, that McMahon's most famous role was that of the endorser of the American Family Publishers, often mistaken for Publisher's Clearing House. Visions of him with microphone in hand and knocking on some unsuspecting person's door and announcing,"you may have just won ten million dollars" are embedded in our memory banks.

Let's stop thinking of Ed McMahon as just a sidekick and give him the credit and recognition he truly deserves; that of a legend.

He will certainly be missed.

Double-Trey Day

CLEVELAND - Deante Young is famous for his shock-tinged comments and creations. His controversial web series has always been an extension of his own personality, which of course means it's pretty racy.

Such is the nature of his brand new episode.

Young's show, a Date with Deante has made it to its 33rd installment, and it's a doozy. From rape and incest to alcoholism and racism, it's all covered here!

"Just For The Shock Of It" is built to cause wide grins and raised eyebrows. Enjoy.

Simpson's Bronco 'Chase' Turned His Crime Into America's Obsession

CLEVELAND - When O.J. Simpson's ex-wife and her friend were found murdered, national interest was minimal. When he was named as a suspect, our curiosity grew. But when the former star running back led the L.A.P.D. on a slow-speed freeway chase, we became obsessed.

And he became more infamous than he'd ever been famous!

It was 15 years ago today that Simpson was supposed to turn himself in to police for those June 12, 1994 murders. Instead, he wrote a rambling "suicide note" (which proclaimed his innocence and his undying love for Nicole) and gave it to close friend Robert Kardashian to read to the cops and media.

Meanwhile, O.J. escaped.

L.A. district attorney Gil Garcetti held a press conference, broadcast nationally, and informed America that Simpson was a fugitive of the law, but that he would be caught and brought to justice. Simpson had made an unwelcomed appearance at Nicole's funeral the previous day during which her mother asked O.J. point blank if he was the murderer of her 35-year old child.

Simpson replied by saying, "I loved her too much."

Shortly after his suicide note was read on television, O.J.'s close friend Al Cowlings' white Ford Bronco was spotted going about 35 miles per hour on the 405 freeway heading towards L.A.'s Orange County. It was soon revealed that O.J. was hiding in the back with a passport, $8,000 in cash, a disguise and a loaded gun pointed at his own head. Cowlings, popularly known as "A.C.," was in contact with law enforcement via a cell phone inside the SUV. He warned them to stay away as Simpson was armed. Soon, a huge caravan of police cars were in slow pursuit of the Bronco as the situation grew into an historic event with potentially tragic consequences.

Of course, as soon as word travelled that Simpson was in the Bronco on the freeway, media attention went through the roof. Nearly two dozen helicopters took to the air to cover the surreal event, an apparent meltdown in real-time of one of the most beloved sports heroes of his generation. Many of O.J.'s friends and colleagues called in to various media outlets that were covering the rapidly unfolding story and implored him to surrender instead of committing suicide. With 95 million people watching at home on television, the public's marginal interest morphed into a full-fledged fascination.

When the dust settled at around 8PM PST, Cowlings led the caravan of police cars to Simpson's lavish Brentwood estate on Rockingham Drive and emerged from the vehicle with his hands up. Simpson was allowed to go into his home for a short time, then he was taken into custody. The entire time, a multitude of news cameras followed each and every moment, particularly from an aerial view.

The scope and impact of the "chase" was unprecedented. Game 5 of the 1994 NBA Finals was interrupted in favor of coverage of Simpson's stunt. Scores of people on overpasses on the 405 freeway somehow received word of O.J.'s scenario and they actually made signs supporting him.

A few signs read, "Run O.J. run!"

O.J. entered a plea of "not guilty" three days later in his first court appearance and less than three weeks later, Judge Kathleen Kennedy-Powell stated that there was ample evidence to force Simpson to stand trial for the double murders. Of course, the trial began in January 1995 and received an enormous amount of media coverage. It became an international fixation and turned O.J. into the most hated man on the planet with each negative detail revealed in court about him and his relationship with Nicole. The trial lasted nearly nine months, culminating in a truly shocking conclusion.

Simpson was found "not guilty" on all charges!

Though the trial was dubbed "the trial of the century," it was that iconic Bronco chase that truly turned O.J. Simpson into a hated, infamous criminal. It is the singular moment that captured America's attention and transformed a Los Angeles double-murder into a major television series.

Sad but true.

Here we sit, 15 years later still stunned by that Bronco chase. As O.J. Simpson sits in a Nevada prison (on unrelated charges), you really have to make the connection of that '94 moment and his current status.

I wonder if he now wishes that he killed himself that day.

Letterman-Palin Story Is Grossly Overblown

CLEVELAND - In today's media-filled, Internet everywhere world, everything gets over reported, mega sensationalized and overreacted to. The current public outcry against comedian and talk-show host David Letterman is no different.

Will this story please go away?

Letterman, 62 has been under a maelstrom of controversy for over a week now as a result of a "tasteless" joke he told about Governor Sarah Palin's daughter last week during one of his opening monologues on The Late Show with David Letterman. In the joke, the legendary host referenced a New York Yankees game that the governor attended with her daughter.

Letterman joked that Palin's daughter got knocked up during the game by Yankees star Alex Rodriguez, a comment that has since appalled and disgusted many. As it turns out, Palin was at the game with her 14-year old daughter Willow as opposed to her 18-year old daughter Bristol, who recently gave birth to a child out of wedlock. Letterman apologized, tongue-in-cheek twice last week, then gave a long and more serious mea culpa last night on his show. He has maintained that he incorrectly believed he was telling the joke about the older daughter as opposed to the minor child.

Of course, the holier-than-thou mentality of Sarah Palin has taken center stage since the incident. She has repudiated, denounced and vilified Letterman in the press and has insinuated that he perpetuates sexual abuse of children. She's accused him of making a crude and perverted joke about a child on purpose and has said he's "not to be trusted" around her daughter.

Um, okay.

Palin's righteous indignation is sickening. As a parent, I totally understand her anger and outrage and even though I cross the line into crude and immoral territory constantly on my web series, songs and books, I get that Letterman's humor was over-the-line in this case. It isn't cause to label him as being morally corrupt or a dangerous child sexual predator. It was an error in judgement by a man who has made his living as a comic for some 30 years. In all that time, anyone is bound to have a few foot-in-the-mouth moments.

One of CBS' sponsors have pulled their advertising. There are organizations in place that are calling for Letterman to be fired from his 27-year hosting gig. Really? This is truly not that serious; Don Imus' 2007 misstep was in-line with who he had been for decades. It represented his character and public persona.

This incident is in no way representative of Letterman's character. It doesn't make it right, but it should count for a lot. The man apologized and his offense was certainly not egregious.

Let's be done with this and move on.

Bryant's 4th NBA Title A Product of His Evolution

CLEVELAND - In team sports, the greatness of a superstar is a very funny thing. They have to integrate their brilliance into the framework of the team in order to truly prosper. Kobe Bryant now knows this quite well, and that's why the L.A. Lakers are the 2008-09 NBA champions.

Congratulations Mr. Bryant and company.

Bryant, 30 earned his first ever NBA Finals MVP trophy moments after the Lakers dismantled the suddenly mis-firing Orlando Magic, 99-86 in capturing the series, 4-1 in central Florida. It was the 15th NBA title for the Lakers franchise and the 4th of Bryant's 13 season tenure, but it is the one championship that will define his scintillating career. The first three championships were won during Shaquille O'Neal's reign of NBA dominance; 2000 to 2002.

O'Neal was the impossible-to-guard-in-the-paint behemoth that co-starred with a young and petulant Bryant on those Lakers title teams. Because of the incredible edge (and his starring role on the team) that O'Neal's presence gave those L.A. teams, Kobe never received true credit for having already earned three championships coming into this series.

That is no longer the case.

It is true that Bryant came into the league in 1996 as the mega-cocky, ultra talented star of a high school team. He had delusions of becoming the greatest player in NBA history and shamelessly emulated the great Michael Jordan in nearly every aspect upon his entrance into the pros. He even sought out Jordan for advice during a Bulls-Lakers matchup in December 1997, a game in which 19-year old Kobe scored 33 points to 34-year old Jordan's 36 points.

Bryant seemed to have it all too easy. He joined an NBA team that was stacked with major talent, had the luxury of sitting the bench and learning from his polished and experienced teammates, got voted as a starter on the 1998 NBA All-Star team even though he didn't even start for his own team. He also had the great fortune of getting to play against single coverage because the opposing teams would be so focused on corralling Shaq in the paint.

His talents flourished rapidly, but his game remained immature and his palpable arrogance and defiance began to compromise his extensive talents. True, he was a dominant athlete and scorer, but as an overall leader and teammate, he was not at all impressive.

So, the Lakers won their trifecta of championships with O'Neal soaking up loads of glory for the accomplishments. That didn't sit well with the hyper competitive Bryant, who went into the '02-'03 season with a focus on dominating on offense. His midseason scoring burst earned major headlines as he averaged over 40 points for a 13-game stretch that evoked memories of MJ's early years in Chicago.

As proof of Kobe's mentality back then, he turned his final meeting with Jordan (in MJ's stint as a Washington Wizard) into a personal showcase in a transparent attempt to show he had become what Michael used to be -- the ultimate offensive weapon. That March 28, 2003 game saw Bryant fire in 42 points in the first half, then finish with 55 to Jordan's pedestrian 23. What Kobe seemed to ignore was the fact that he was a spry 24 years old while Jordan was a decade past his prime at age 40. Not to mention the fact that MJ had long before that proven to be a true winner and the quintessential leader.

Bryant's 30 points per game scoring average that season was the first thirty-plus of his career. It seemed to be a slap in the face to Shaq's importance, who put up 27.5 points and 11.1 rebounds per game. He also shot 57% from the floor, which was proof that he was the smartest choice for volume shooting on the team. The Lakers lost to the San Antonio Spurs in the conference playoffs that season which caused tears from Bryant, and prevented the rare "4-peat" for L.A.

That summer, Kobe got tangled up in a stunning rape case in Colorado and his image took a giant hit. Already he was known as the selfish and defiant superstar that wouldn't defer more to O'Neal as he should have, but now he was being labeled a criminal and rapist. One thing he admitted to being was an adulterer, which didn't exactly win him any brownie points.

The Lakers drastically made themselves over in the 2003-04 season, adding former all-stars Karl Malone and Gary Payton to the team which proved disastrous. The team never clicked together and though heavily favored to win the 2004 NBA title, they lost to the Detroit Pistons in the NBA Finals. The Shaq and Kobe soap opera reached a fever pitch during this time and their disdain for each other became more and more apparent. By the following season, three of the four stars had gone elsewhere.

Bryant remained.

It seemed as if Kobe had finally gotten his wish; now in his 9th season, he was in sole control of his own team. O'Neal was in Miami and Phil Jackson retired in the offseason. Now he could prove that he was the man all along and show off! As it turned out, the 2004-05 season was easily the weakest of Kobe's career. The Lakers won a paltry 34 games, they missed the playoffs for the first time in a decade and Bryant missed 16 games to injury. Meanwhile, O'Neal's impact in Miami was immediate as he had an MVP-style season and led the Heat to 59 victories.

The next two seasons saw more frustration for Bryant. In the 2005-06 season, he dominated on offense like few others ever have in NBA history. In December, he scored a gargantuan 62 points in just three quarters against Dallas (who had just 61 as a team after 3) then registered the 2nd highest single-game point total in history with an 81-point explosion on January 22, 2006 v.s. Toronto. He averaged a career high 35.4 points on the season, the highest average since Jordan's 37.1 ppg in 1986-87. Awesome as it may have seemed, his stratospheric scoring was counter-productive to team success. It also made the Lakers a non-contender and with a mediocre 45-37 record, they scared no one.

The Lakers got bounced in the first round by the Phoenix Suns forcing them to look to the following season for hope. Kobe once again averaged over 30 (and authored several more 50 and 60 point games), but the 2006-07 season ended with yet another first round exit to the Suns.

This is when Bryant had had enough. During the Lakers' 2007 offseason, he criticized team management, repeatedly requested a trade and publicly disparaged teenaged teammate Andrew Bynum. Going into the 2007-08 season, Bryant's departure seemed guaranteed.

Then, a funny thing happened.

The Lakers began to play very well, Bynum greatly improved and Kobe seemed very pleased. Approaching midseason, Bynum went down with an injury, but Lady Luck took up residence in the Lakers front office in the form of an unbelievable trade with Memphis for all-star Pau Gasol. The Lakers gave up absolutely nothing but a perpetual bust (Kwame Brown) to acquire a man that had been outstanding his entire career. He had averaged 19 points and 9 rebounds for the Grizzlies prior to being shipped to L.A. This was seen league-wide as a major heist and all but paved the way to a Lakers NBA title.

As L.A. ran through the Western Conference playoffs, Bryant's rebirth was evident. In just a matter of months, his firm trade demands had vanished and were replaced by obvious joy and satisfaction. That joy turned into vengeful focus after the made over Boston Celtics trounced them in the 2008 NBA Finals. After a 39-point shellacking in Game 6, Bryant vowed that 2009 would be very different.

And it was.

In spite of the grandiose hoopla surrounding the Cleveland Cavaliers and their megastar LeBron James, the Lakers stayed consistently efficient. They marched to a 65-17 record, second to the Cavs and went into the playoffs as the clear favorite to emerge from the West. All season, hoops fans seemed to anticipate a Finals showdown between Bryant and James, the top two stars in the game. As it were, the team that the Lakers faced in the Finals was the same team that shockingly manhandled the Cavs out of the playoffs.

LeBron had been named league MVP, and in many circles many felt that he had eclipsed Bryant as the game's pre-eminent talent. In any event, the Lakers mowed down every opponent out west, then shut down Orlando's vaunted 3-point attack with ease. The Magic's brick house star, Dwight Howard was rendered ineffective for much of the series and was exposed as having a very limited offensive arsenal. Through it all, Bryant was magnificent as he averaged 32.4 points and 7.4 assists in the series, a five-game triumph that saw the 13-year icon wear a perpetual scowl on his face. His focus was so singular, it was hard not to root for the man even if you hated him as a player or person.

Of course, Phil Jackson made history as he became the first coach in NBA history to win 10 NBA championships. Forget the talk of his job being a breeze since he coached Jordan, Scottie Pippen, O'Neal and Bryant. This guy can truly coach. But as amazing as Jackson's accomplishments have been, this game, this series and this season belongs to Bryant. It had been seven long years since he last won a title, and the aforementioned trials and tribulations he has endured has matured him. Yes, he still knocked in 32 plus per game, but he plays the game in a very selfless way these days. He doesn't mind being a decoy or facilitator now. He relishes moments when his teammates make major plays and earn the glory such as Derek Fisher's dagger 3-pointers in Game 4 or Trevor Ariza's consistent excellence all series long.

It is this understanding of the marvelous benefits of the system that has allowed for Bryant's evolution. He has ascended closer to the top of the NBA Mt. Rushmore by being less of an individual and more of a cog in a machine.

Let's give Kobe Bryant his due. He is officially a legend.

Jordan's Final Masterpiece Almost Didn't Happen

CLEVELAND - Michael Jordan was the quintessential master of the miraculous moment on pro basketball courts all over the world. His final NBA championship was captured with his trademark excellence and that indelible moment is among the most iconic in sports history.

And it all happened 11 years ago today.

So vivid are my memories of that tension-filled Game 6 of the 1998 NBA Finals. The Chicago Bulls ended up winning the game in dramatic fashion, but their path was nearly derailed many times that season, which had been dubbed "The Last Dance" by head coach Phil Jackson. It was all but guaranteed that the five-time championship team would be dismantled after the season, win or lose and that the legendary Jordan would once again step into retirement. He was a ripe and worn 35 years old, still the league's best player, but certainly losing his enormous powers little by little.

All-star Scottie Pippen missed a whopping 38 games during the regular season to surgery and the Bulls stood at a very unremarkable 12-9 after 21 games. Jordan had to assume much more of the overall burden of lifting the defending champions to their accustomed heights, which at his age was a ton to ask.

But he was up for it.

After a whirlwind journey through the 1997-98 season, which began with preseason games in Paris, France and played out like a nightly farewell rock concert for the incomparable MJ, the Bulls managed to tie the Utah Jazz for the best record in the NBA at 62-20. Since the Jazz beat Chicago during their two regular season meetings, they won homecourt advantage throughout the entire postseason.

The Bulls went into the playoffs with dreams of winning their 6th NBA crown of the 1990's. They pushed aside both New Jersey and Charlotte before a challenging matchup with the Indiana Pacers in the East Finals. The Bulls took Games 1 and 2 at home, then lost two barn burners in Indiana by a total of four points. Chicago murdered them in Game 5 for a 3-2 series lead, but the Pacers withstood Jordan's 35 points in Game 6 to win by three, forcing a rare (for the Bulls) Game 7 in Chicago.

Jordan guaranteed a Game 7 victory.

Indiana not only jumped out to an early 20-7 lead in Chicago, they also led by two in the closing minutes. Making matters worse, Jordan was mired in an awful shooting nightmare. He shot just 9-of-25 from the floor, but managed to manufacture points down the stretch. He was also the master facilitator and played a great floor game with 9 rebounds and 8 assists.

The Bulls won barely, 88-83 to advance to the Finals for a rematch with a vengeful Utah Jazz, who had lost the 1997 NBA Finals to Chicago in six games.

Utah grabbed Game 1 in overtime, marking the first time the Bulls lost the first game of the championship series in 7 years. The loss set off a wave of panic, I in particular was overwhelmed with nervousness. Game 2 came down to the wire, but with key plays down the stretch from Jordan and Steve Kerr, Chicago earned the victory in Utah for a 1-1 split heading home.

The Bulls authored a historic rout in Game 3, thrashing Utah by 42 to take a 2-1 lead. Game 4 was yet another nip and tuck affair, but MJ's 34 points led the way to a four point victory and a 3-1 lead.

Game 5 had been branded as Jordan's final home game ever and courtside seats sold for as much as $10,000. It was supposed to be the game that the Bulls won their title to send MJ out in a blaze of glory. It was supposed to be the first time Chicago won all three games on their homecourt when they were without homecourt advantage (as in '93 vs Phoenix).

None of those things happened.

Both Pippen and Jordan shot the ball miserably. Toni Kukoc was the only ray of hope as he scored 13 points in the first quarter. He ended up shooting an unreal 11-of-13 from the floor and had a team high 30 points. Pippen was a putrid 2-of-16 for six lousy points, but was enormous in other ways; he had 11 rebounds and 11 assists. Jordan bricked his way to a 9-of-26 showing in scoring 28 points.

Karl Malone was the beast of all beasts in this game as he broke out of a series-long "slump" by scoring 39 huge points, 17 in the pivotal 3rd quarter. In spite of Malone's dominance, Jordan had a chance to win the game as he shot a 30-foot shot with 1.1 seconds left that missed everything.

This set the stage for that historic Game 6 in Utah. The Jazz came out tough in that game and never backed down from the Bulls. Both Malone and John Stockton played their usual roles, scoring and passing and running their venerable pick and roll. Chicago's Pippen injured his back on the first play of the game and was hampered for the rest of the night.

Jordan came out blazing. He scored 16 in the 2nd to finish the 1st half with 23 points, but the Bulls looked as if they were going to need more than him if they were going to win. Pippen managed 26 minutes, but he was needed for maybe another 15. The Jazz were getting a star performance out of Malone and steady contributions from Stockton and Jeff Hornacek, not to mention solid efforts from the bench. For Chicago, only Kukoc stepped up offensively, but even he scored just 15 points. In any event, no one else on the team reached double figures.

The 4th quarter wound up being a brilliant showcase of Michael Jordan's will and determination. After his efficient 9-of-15 shooting start, he went into a tailspin and made just four of his next eighteen. In the early minutes of that final period, his career-long knack for creating heroic basketball moments seemed coated with age, exhaustion and an overmatched reality. He was running on fumes and missed five straight shots as the game drew to its final few minutes.

But with his resolve at an all-time high and his teammates in dire need of another Michael Miracle, he drove purposefully and continuously to the basket to overcome his non-existent outside shot. He was fouled every time and after an uncharacteristic showing at the line in the first 3 quarters (4-of-7), he hit on all eight of his 4th period foul shots.

Inside three minutes to play, Jordan exhibited his outstanding defensive I.Q. when he intercepted a Utah outlet pass, which led to another drive to the basket and trip to the free throw line. He made a pair of foul shots with 59.2 seconds left to tie the game at 83. Utah got the ball back, Malone switched roles with Stockton and found him with a crafty pass and before you knew it, Stockton's 3-pointer put the Jazz up, 86-83 with 41.9 seconds left.

After a Bulls timeout, Jordan drove hard to the baseline and scored on a beautiful layup over Antoine Carr at 37.1 seconds to draw the Bulls to within one. Back on defense, the Bulls took their positions on the floor in hopes of preventing another crushing Jazz score. This is where I was tremendously filled with nervousness and had a tummy full of butterflies. Of course, as Malone got the ball on a post up ready to make his move to the basket, Jordan came from the weak side and stole the ball from the Jazz superstar, which put an enormous smile on my face.

This is the moment that I remember with incredible jubilation and acuity. As my best friend and I watched this moment unfold on television at a sports bar, he put his head down on the table and said, "I know [he's] going to make it." I felt the exact same way, but I was still super tense because I just didn't want Michael to fail. As he confidently brought the ball upcourt while surveying the defense of the Jazz, the clock ticked inside of ten seconds and the scoreboard showed Utah to be ahead, 86-85.

Game 7 in Utah was seconds from being a reality.

MJ, met at the top of the circle by Jazz swingman Bryon Russell, went into his move as he dribbled with his right hand as if he were going into the paint. Russell stayed right with him, then Jordan cleverly nudged him surreptitiously with his left hand, went into a crossover dribble, stepped to his left as Russell drifted the opposite way, and rose up for an unobstructed jumper from 20 feet out.

All net.

As Jordan stood like a perfectly sculpted effigy with his right arm raised in a textbook follow-through motion, the basketball lay on the court after its winning trajectory had carried it and this moment into the history books. The clocked showed 5.2 seconds remaining, the scoreboard showed the Bulls ahead, 87-86, the crowd showed awe and shock and Jazz coach Jerry Sloan scrambled to devise a strategy to overcome this stunning 40 seconds from Michael Jordan.

Stockton got the inbounds pass and fired up a too-close-for-comfort 3-pointer that bounced off the rim and backboard at the buzzer. The Bulls had won the NBA championship for the sixth time in eight seasons!

It seemed like a million people mobbed Jordan on the court after the title had become official. Phil Jackson gave him a huge hug and said, "MJ, oh my God that was beautiful!" For the legendary Michael Jordan, it was his seminal moment -- his flash point in an epic NBA career that eclipsed the highest of expectations by an enormous margin. He finished with 45 points, 16 in the hard fought 4th quarter and a bucket of tears welling in his eyes. He knew this incomparable dynasty had reached its end.

Jordan's 33.5 points per game helped him earn his 6th NBA Finals MVP award as Chicago stamped itself as the team of the decade with its "repeat three-peat" as Commissioner David Stern called it.

I will never forget June 14, 1998 and what Michael Jordan did that day. He proved in amazing fashion that talent will get you very far, but your determination will be what seals the deal.

That's why he's the greatest.

15 Years Later, Simpson's Bad Judgement Still Baffles

CLEVELAND - O.J. Simpson is arguably the biggest idiot in the history of the United States. He was the kid born into poverty with a physical impediment that grew into an iconic pro athlete and then, a beloved Hollywood celebrity, only to give it all away of his own free will by murdering two people.

Wow.

It was a hard-to-believe yet easy-to-believe 15 years ago today that Simpson infamously murdered his ex-wife Nicole Brown and her friend Ron Goldman outside of her condo in the posh L.A. neighborhood of Brentwood. The crime led to a highly publicized trial and with it, an international fixation with every minute detail of the alluring case that had it all; sex, domestic abuse, drugs, interracial marriage and celebrity.

For Simpson, his tremendous lack of judgement and apparent uncontrolled temper ruined the privileged life he worked so hard to attain. To the public, he was endlessly charming, disarming and well-spoken. Though handsome, it was his obvious intellect that endeared him to many in his circle. His wholesome image and cool nicknames (O.J. and The Juice) made his career as product endorser a pipeline to scores of children who wanted to be like him. In short, he was America's favorite son.

When O.J. met Nicole Brown in 1977, he was in the twilight of a Hall of Fame NFL career that earned him constant praise. He was also 30 years old (young outside of pro sports) who was front and center in the endlessly lavish West Los Angeles lifestyle enjoyed by wealthy celebrities. Nicole was an 18-year old waitress from an unassuming city called Dana Point. When they got together, she was seen as his trophy and after they wed in 1985, his possession. Their seven-year marriage produced two children and one public scandal; the famous 1989 incident when Nicole called the cops on O.J. after a spat grew physical. In the end, it was nothing more than a blip on Simpson's squeaky clean image.

Perhaps it was things such as that incident that led O.J. to believe he could get away with anything. Their marriage ended on a sour note in 1992 and their attempt at a reconciliation in 1993 proved disastrous. Still, no one outside of maybe Nicole herself foresaw the stunning events of that late Spring day 15 years ago. Years later, Simpson wrote extensively in a book about how inconsistent Nicole's personality became in her last couple years. He also claims that she was abusive in her own way to him and did things that would push anyone's buttons.

Let's play Devil's Advocate.

Suppose O.J. is telling the truth. Let's say that Nicole was abusive to him and he tried repeatedly to turn the other cheek. Let's say she did a ton of ill-advised things that jeopardized her young children's well being and let's say she had an insatiable drug habit as has been reported. I personally can empathize with any guy that has dealt with a woman like that. I'm not saying that this is all true about her; I'm just saying let's assume it was to make a point.

It would be very understandable for Simpson to want to destroy her. If she was as careless with their children as he says (and it is very possible), can we really blame him for being so enraged that he would think irrationally? To borrow a famous line from comedian Chris Rock: "I'm not saying he should have killed her, but I understand!"

Look, Simpson was wrong for murdering two people regardless of if it was prompted. I could easily say that no one deserves to be killed, but that would be naive to say because sometimes a person does deserve it. What troubles me about O.J.'s decision that night is that he allowed another person to get so under his skin that it ruined his life and ended theirs. We all know that our temper mixed with the heat of the moment can often lead to poor choices. But Simpson had everything in life; four beautiful children, a film career, a broadcasting career, a sprawling L.A. mansion, awesome cars, a legion of fans, a sexy young girlfriend (Paula Barbieri) and millions of dollars in the bank.

And most of all, his good name.

Nothing was ever the same for O.J. Simpson after June 12, 1994. Even when he was shockingly acquitted of all charges in October of 1995, he was seen as a pariah and the murderer that walked because of his money and fame. Even the iconic attorney that steered his amazing acquittal, Johnnie L. Cochran, Jr. (who died in 2005) was seen as a snake by many.

I was at the end of my 11th grade school year when this crime took place. I wrote articles about it and watched wall-to-wall coverage of the goings on in the preliminary hearing and actual trial. It was an undeniably historic flash point, and it actually felt like it at the time. I was an enormous fan of the case, though I paid Simpson no attention prior to the murders and was only tantalized by it once I saw Nicole's photo on television. I never knew she was white, and because of my decades-long fixation with white females, it stirred my interest.

Of course, Simpson is in prison now for a ridiculous 2007 caper in which he tried to take back sports memorabilia and other of his personal artifacts by pulling a gun on a group of guys who were trying to sell it. Simpson had been found liable in a 1997 civil trial for both murders in 1994 and owed tens of millions of dollars to murder victim Ron Goldman's family, money which Simpson had long refused to pay.

Many saw the 2008 conviction as 'revenge' for 1994. I believe it was too which is yet another sad chapter to this perplexing story. O.J. Simpson grew to symbolize the achievement of the American Dream, then he lost his sense and appreciation for the life he was blessed with and became America's nightmare.

Let's all learn from this sad story.

'Suicidal' Jordan Murdered Jazz In Pivotal Game 5

CLEVELAND - When it came to basketball excellence, Michael Jordan was so great that his hype couldn't keep up with his real-life hoops accomplishments. In Game 5 of the 1997 NBA Finals, his legend went from stratospheric to intergalactic.

Seriously.

Today marks the 12th anniversary of one of the most seminal moments in NBA history. Jordan's historic performance in that super important Game is maybe his most awesome moment ever on a basketball court.

And that's saying a whole lot!

Going into Game 5, the Chicago Bulls were in big-time trouble. After taking the first two games of the series against the Utah Jazz in Chicago, the Bulls lost both games three and four in Salt Lake City. Jordan, 34 at the time had been kept in check in a huge way in those two contests. On his home floor for Games 1 and 2, he averaged 34.5 points, 8.5 rebounds and 8.5 assists. In the two road games, he managed just 24 points, 3.5 rebounds and 5 assists. The Jazz dynamic duo of Karl Malone and John Stockton stunningly curtailed anything Chicago had and the series wound up tied, 2-2.

Game 5 was do-or-die.

Jordan had come down with a major illness a day prior to the must-win Game 5. At the time, it was reported to have been either food poisoning or a violent stomach flu. Either way, he was advised by doctors not to play the game because it could seriously jeopardize his life. With the rigors of playing a high-stakes pro basketball game and the energy it would require (not to mention his constant dehydration), Michael was literally risking his own life if he decided to play.

Of course, Jordan was the competitor of all competitors and a game this important took precedence over his own health and life. In that way, the hoops hero was suicidal for deciding to play.

Utah jumped out to a double digit lead in the early going and carried that energy and momentum into the second period. Jordan, who looked very gaunt and discolored somehow summoned another level of brilliance and strength as he managed to score a huge 17 points in the 2nd quarter to get his team back into a game they were quickly giving away.

The rest of the game was largely nip and tuck, and by the 4th period, MJ was exhausted and unable to participate in huddles with coach Phil Jackson and his teammates. Instead, he was given constant supplies of fluids, some intravenously.

Go figure that Michael Jordan entered the final frame with 23 points, then scored a yeoman's 15 in the 4th to finish with a game high 38 points along with 7 rebounds, 5 assists and 3 steals. For good measure, he hit a foul shot, missed the second then stepped behind the three-point line as teammate Toni Kukoc controlled the rebound. Jordan received Kukoc's pass, then rose up for a deadeye 3-pointer that put the Bulls in the lead with 25 seconds remaining.

When the dust settled, Chicago won their most important road game of the season by the skin of their teeth, 90-88 for the all-important 3-2 series lead heading back to Chicago. Jordan could barely stand at game's end and famously leaned on Pippen (photo above) after the final horn sounded looking as if he might collapse.

The Bulls went on capture the 5th of what would become six NBA championships in their next game, but it was this amazing MJ effort in Game 5 that kept their historic dynasty alive. The passage of time hasn't dulled the greatness of that moment, it has only elevated its stature.

But for the iconic Jordan, that's always to be expected.

Nightmare in Orlando: Bryant '09, Jordan '95

CLEVELAND - While the Orlando Magic were in the process of defeating the L.A. Lakers, 108-104 last night in Florida to trim their deficit in the NBA Finals to 2-1, I was busy watching on television while having flashbacks of 1995.

That was the last time the Magic were in the NBA Finals.

My flashbacks however, were not of that Shaquille O'Neal/Penny Hardaway-led team that got swept 4-0 by the eventual champion Houston Rockets. The memories I was having were about that Orlando team's performance in the Eastern Conference Semifinals versus the Chicago Bulls.

Yes, it's always about Michael Jordan with me.

What brought on these memories? How about this: Kobe Bryant, the basketball great who has starred for Hollywood's team for the past 13 years endured a very uncharacteristic conclusion to last night's game. After a sizzling 1st quarter during which he scored 17 huge points, he went into a tailspin and struggled to score a mere 14 during the final three quarters. The most shocking part, however was his five missed free throws in the game, including a critical one down the stretch and a costly turnover when Bryant tried to split Orlando's defense and was stripped of the ball with less than a half minute to go.

Wow.

Though Kobe finished with 31 points, his second half showing was plain awful. His usual crunch time brilliance was AWOL in this game, a contest that could have resulted in a stranglehold 3-0 series lead for the Lakers but instead has given the Magic renewed hope after dropping a heartbreaking Game 2 in L.A.

Which brings us to Jordan.

The Bulls legend had returned from an early retirement in March 1995 at age 32. After playing in the final 17 games of the regular season, he led Chicago to a 4-1 victory in Round 1 over the Charlotte Hornets which earned them the right to face the upstart Magic.

In Game 1 on Orlando's homecourt, Chicago seemed poised for a stunning upset when they led 91-90 with the ball in the closing seconds. Jordan, who by then possessed a huge catalog of 4th quarter heroics dribbled the ball into the frontcourt while hounded defensively by sharpshooting guard Nick Anderson. All-star Hardaway came with a trap on MJ and Anderson caught him off guard by knocking the ball from Jordan. Hardaway recovered the ball and tossed it downcourt to a cutting Horace Grant (former Bull) who dunked emphatically for a 1-point Magic lead.

After Chicago came out of a timeout, Jordan had the ball again to redeem himself with a clutch play, but he dribbled to the foul line, rose up for an apparent jumper, then tossed a pass towards the baseline to Scottie Pippen who, anticipating a Jordan shot attempt, cut to the basket to gain position for a potential rebound. The miscommunication between star players caused the ball to sail out of bounds.

Orlando won the game, 94-91 while Jordan had to endure the utter disappointment of costing his team a critical victory. He had arguably his worst playoff game ever; 19 points on 8-of-22 shooting and a whopping 8 turnovers! The Magic wound up beating the Bulls, 4-2 in the series and move on to the East Finals v.s. Indiana. Jordan had been woefully inconsistent and out of sync during the entire series, due mostly to his 21 months of pro hoops inactivity. This crushing defeat led many to believe that Jordan had become a has-been and that Chicago's time had passed. For Michael himself, he used the series defeat as the matrix to power his return for his 11th season the following autumn.

That led to the Bulls' historic 72-10 season and 4th NBA title as well as MJ's 4th MVP award.

Back to Bryant. It is very safe to say that he isn't "losing it" or past his prime. The man is two months from his 31st birthday, which isn't exactly young by NBA standards, but with his prime level of fitness, skill, savvy and flat-out drive, he may as well be five years younger.

Bryant will be just fine. Just look at how Jordan came out of his nightmare in Orlando.

Sex, Drugs, Bums and Sluts

CLEVELAND - As if any of us needed to be reminded, Deante Young is one of the most hilarious people on the planet.

His infamous show is an extension of that.

Young's production company, April Fool's Entertainment has released a four minute trailer through its film divison, Dirty Truth Films highlighting some of the most unforgettable moments in the 32-episode history of a Date with Deante. From confessionals about sexual promiscuity and major drug abuse to public displays of nudity and heavy intoxication, Young's iconic series has covered it all.

Real life at its most stunning.

The Drunken Dichotomy

CLEVELAND - Two drunks can either behave exactly the same or drastically different. In the latest episode of a Date with Deante, the contrast is more stunning than night and day.

Welcome to "The Alcoholic Freak Show."

Entertainer Deante Young serves up his customary barrel of laughs laced with a hearty dose of raunchy sprinkles in this hilarious installment that features the 3rd appearance of legendary homeless bum Tony Train Wreck. His alcoholic counterpart is the eccentric Brian, who looks like a purple parrot but actually possesses real intelligence....fueled by several servings of rum.

Tony Train Wreck continues his drunken, Don Imus-style racist tirades and stunningly gets afflicted with Parkinson's Disease while getting hammered.

It has to be seen to be believed!

Bryant Spanks Orlando; L.A. Rolls In A Rout

CLEVELAND - Kobe Bryant, in the immortal words of Sean "Diddy" Combs, was absolutely "locked in" last night at the Staples Center as he piloted his L.A. Lakers to a super 100-75 victory and a 1-0 lead over the Orlando Magic in Game One of the NBA Finals.

He scored 40 points for the first time ever in his Finals career.

The Magic, who looked so super against the Cleveland Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference Finals were a shell of themselves as they shot a miserable 29% from the field and made just 23 baskets. They were completely unable to defend Bryant, but did force him to fire up a whopping 34 shots. No matter. He had 18 of his 40 in the 3rd period when the Lakers outscored the Magic 29-15 for a 24-point lead heading into the final period.

All-star center Dwight Howard was rendered useless in this game as he managed to make just one basket in six attempts. His 12 points paled in comparison to his Game 6 performance against the Cavs when he scored 40. Howard, 23 did grab 15 rebounds but was in foul trouble most of the first half, when Orlando (buoyed by the return of Jameer Nelson) actually kept the game close. Overall, neither Rashard Lewis or Hedo Turkoglu did anything to help Orlando and the team was actually led by Mickael Pietrus with 14 points.

That will never cut it.

Bryant was supported by Pau Gasol's 16 points and Lamar Odom's 11 points, 14 rebounds, but at the end of the day, it was Kobe's razor sharp focus and uncompromising will that gave L.A. the edge. Game 2 will be Sunday at the Staples Center.

Expect more of the same.

True Story: Bryant's Legacy Hangs On These Finals

CLEVELAND - Kobe Bryant was a basketball prodigy long before he joined the NBA, but his pro career, though outstanding can also be described in a not-so-endearing word.

Incomplete.

Bryant leads the Los Angeles Lakers into the NBA Finals tonight against man-child Dwight Howard and the Orlando Magic. After a sterling career that has still somehow fallen short of expectations and potential, and a crushing defeat in last season's championship series to the Boston Celtics, Bryant looks more focused than ever to capture his long awaited 4th title and silence those who believe he needs to win one without Shaquille O'Neal as the leading man. Bottom line: Kobe's basketball legacy rests on this series.

I know I know. Bryant has won scoring titles, league MVP honors and been a perennial member of the All-NBA Defensive team. Heck, he was even a major player on the L.A. Lakers when they won 3 straight NBA championships from 2000 to 2002. The problem with Kobe is twofold; while it is true that Shaquille O'Neal needed guys like Bryant, Robert Horry, Brian Shaw and Derek Fisher to win those titles, it is also true that Bryant back then was more expendable than was O'Neal -- in spite of his [Kobe's] great talent. Shaq was the unique force of nature that no other team possessed while Bryant was a mega talented wing player and many teams had one of those. O'Neal by the way, captured another championship, albeit as a secondary player with the Miami Heat in 2006 with Dwyane Wade leading the way. Kobe hasn't won with any of the top players he's played with since O'Neal's departure following the Lakers' shocking loss to the Detroit Pistons in the 2004 NBA Finals.

Bryant's other problem is that most of his greatest moments on the court have come in the regular season. His signature game is clearly his astounding 81 points versus the Raptors in 2006, but it was a meaningless game against a far inferior opponent in the ho-hum NBA days of January. Though the feat was awesome, it hardly ranks with iconic playoff moments from legends like Larry Bird, Michael Jordan and Magic Johnson.

During that high-scoring 2005-06 season, Bryant averaged 35.4 points per game. In addition to the amazing 81 point game, he scored 62 points in just three quarters against the Mavericks and a season later had a 65- point explosion and another 60 point game. This season, Bryant set a Madison Square Garden record with a 61 point showcase. Each of these games won him major praise, but in the grand scheme of things, they are irrelevant flourishes of offensive excellence that amount to nothing but oohs and ahs.

Not championships.

Jordan, the player that Bryant has been compared to for his entire 13 NBA seasons, scored at will just like Kobe. MJ won 10 NBA scoring titles and owns the highest career scoring average in league history. But Jordan's most iconic moments came in the postseason, first in the early rounds (an NBA record 63 points versus Boston in 1986, a buzzer-beating series clinching jumper over the Cavs in 1989), then in both the conference Finals and NBA Finals. Regular season moments like MJ's 69 points in 1990 or his 64 points in a 1993 loss to Orlando register far down the scale on his brilliance chart because of his myriad playoff feats.

He also led the Chicago Bulls to six championships in one decade as the leading man.

Kobe was wondrously talented in his early years in the league. He was also a pretentious, arrogant and unpolished brat that seemed to believe he would be better off without O'Neal's low-post dominance. What evolved into a fierce juggernaut of a team deteriorated into a messy divorce and a lackluster Lakers team. From 2005 to 2007, they were largely an afterthought in the Western Conference while Bryant, finally the driver of the ship grew more and more frustrated and disenchanted with the organization.

It was the unreal trade of the super trash Kwame Brown for all-star Pau Gasol that turned the Lakers into a force. Young Andrew Bynum greatly improved and Bryant suddenly was happy and encouraged. When they ran into the Celtics' buzz saw in the 2008 NBA Finals, it could've been said that Gasol's mid-season arrival wasn't enough time for the team to find its true identity.

Whatever.

This season, Gasol has been around since training camp and erstwhile star Lamar Odom has exhibited flashes of excellence. The whole time, Kobe has been his usual transcendent self. Now, his powerhouse team faces an underrated but highly skilled Magic team that are riding a wave of exuberance after their unexpected dispatching of the favored Cleveland Cavaliers in the East Finals. It won't be easy for L.A. if they are to win this series and claim their 15th NBA title. They don't seem to feel the pressure, but it is there.

Especially on Kobe Bryant.

Jordan's 3-Point Plan For Success Was Stunning

CLEVELAND - During the 1991-92 NBA season, Michael Jordan was considered the best player in basketball. Clyde Drexler was considered nearly his equal, and a better 3-point shooter.

Then came the 1992 NBA Finals.

Jordan, 29 at the time put on an amazing shooting display 17 years ago today in Game One of the NBA Finals that contradicted his thoughts of his futile 3-point game. During the regular season, he was voted the NBA's Most Valuable Player for the second consecutive season as he led his Chicago Bulls to a sparkling 67-15 record. He also earned his 6th straight scoring title (30.1 points per game, 6.4 rebounds, 6.1 assists) and was simply magnificent from the first practice in training camp. After the Bulls survived unexpected adversity in both the semifinals and conference finals, they met up with the Portland Trailblazers in the championship series to defend their NBA crown.

Jordan and Drexler was the ultimate matchup.

June 3, 1992 was a day I won't ever forget. Jordan uncharacteristically came out gunning from long range as the Blazers jumped out to an early lead in Chicago Stadium. He missed two three-point attempts but consistently drilled mid-range jumpers against Drexler's elite defense. As Portland's offense continued to flow easily, the Bulls seemed a bit disjointed and MJ kept finding himself wide open behind the 3-point arc (and with good reason; he shot just 27% from deep on the season).

To make a long story short, Jordan nailed a trio of three pointers in the 1st quarter and added another three in the 2nd. He wound up with six consecutive 3-pointers in a span of 9:22 and shot 14-of-19 from the field in the first half. His 35 points was not only breathtaking, it was also an NBA Finals record. After his final trey swished through the hoop, a totally surprised Jordan turned to basketball icon-turned-analyst Magic Johnson (who was courtside) and famously shrugged his shoulders with his hands out in an I-can't-believe-my-own-greatness-either pose.

Chicago acquired a 55-41 halftime lead and romped to a 122-89 thumping of Portland to capture Game One. MJ played facilitator in the 2nd half as he wound up with 39 points and 11 assists and an amazing tomahawk slam dunk off a missed free-throw.

It must be said that this was one of the most rousing, stupendous moments in MJ's legendary career, largely because it took place in the NBA Finals. His performance the rest of the series ended any idea that Drexler was even close to his equal. Sure, Drexler was outstanding in defeat (24.8 points per game), but Jordan was incomparable (35.8 points, 6.5 assists) and led the Bulls to a 4-2 series victory and their 2nd NBA title.

In the aftermath of his team losing in the NBA Finals for the second time in three seasons, Drexler was gracious in defeat and remarked, "Going into this series I thought that Michael Jordan had 2,000 moves. I was wrong. He has 3,000."

Too true.

Imported Beauties

CLEVELAND - The United States is not exactly friends with every country on the planet, but for one day, two countries have provided the U.S. with two gorgeous imports.

Enter Deante Young.

On the latest episode of Young's shock-tinged web series a Date with Deante, the entertainer welcomes Russian blonde bombshell Natalia and Guyanese hottie Asha into his twisted world of humor.

Both ladies seem like foreign little angels, but there's an obvious naughty side to them both. Check out the 31st episode entitled, "Foreign Affairs" and witness this pseudo alliance with these international pieces of eye candy.